In this module, we concentrate on light waves and away from light rays, as covered in Module 1.3. In so doing, we move from a concern over the propagation of light energy along straight-line segments to one that includes the spreading of light energy-a fundamental behavior of all wave motion. With wave optics-commonly referred to as physical optics-we are able…
This module is an in-depth explanation of lasers as they apply to the larger field of optics and photonics. Anyone going through this module should have already completed Modules 1.1-1.4 and have a good working knowledge of algebra, exponents, and logarithms. Lasers are devices that amplify or increase the intensity of light to produce a highly directional, high-intensity beam that…
In this module, we describe some common optical detectors and their important characteristics. We do not cover the entire field of light detection, which is very broad. Instead, we emphasize those detectors that are most commonly encountered in photonics applications. The two main types of optical detectors are photon detectors and thermal detectors. Photon detectors produce one electron for each…
This module is an introduction to the basics of fiber optics, discussing especially the characteristics of optical fibers with regards to the fabrication of low-loss optical fibers and the room-temperature operation of semiconductor lasers in 1970. Within a brief span of 30 years, we are now in the fifth generation of optical fiber communication systems. Recent developments in optical amplifiers…
Fiber optics is a major building block in the telecommunication infrastructure. Its high bandwidth capabilities and low attenuation characteristics make it ideal for gigabit transmission and beyond. In this module, you will be introduced to the building blocks that make up a fiber-optic communication system. You will learn about the different types of fibers (and their applications), light sources and…
Electronic and electro-optic devices are frequently used to display images obtained from the computer processing of data. Images, or digital pictures, are generally two-dimensional data structures that convey spatial information to the viewer. Images are collected through various means, from digital cameras to laser radar scanning systems. Once stored in a computer, these images can be manipulated mathematically to accomplish…
Wide Bandgap Semiconductors GaN, SiC module was created to introduce this emerging field in the engineering technology and related associate level curriculum.